1980
Whatcha reading? Bestsellers of 1980 still available at the library: Presumed Innocence by Scott TurowThe Prince of Tides by Pat Conroy 14

The library parking lot was expanded. 14

“The library and the Countryside Association for the Handicapped sponsored the series of 5 free evening workshops.” 42 The series was developed by social workers, Miriam Pollack and Bev Nyerberg. Topics included “trends in the field; what is a handicap?; your child at home; effects of the special child on the family; and workshops.” 43

Cook Memorial Library head librarian, Fred Byergo, and Condell Hospital’s Director of Volunteers, Mary Lawrence, implemented a new program at the hospital that offered patients the library’s services. Volunteers would bring 50 books per month to the hospital for use by its patients. The volunteers kept track of returns. A list of available reading material was posted in Ms. Lawrence’s office at the hospital.44

1981
The library offered to those with physical handicaps. Braille books and sheet music, books on tape, and large print volumes were added to the collection. For patrons who were homebound, volunteers delivered material.45

“The Friends of the Cook Memorial Library was organized. The Friends were instrumental in mobilizing community support for a referendum asking support to increase the library’s general operating levy. The referendum passed by a two to once margin. The Children’s Department, Administration and Technical Services moved to the library’s remodeled lower level.”14 Images of the remodeling construction are below. Click on thumbnails to view images.

Dial-A-Story: By dialing 362-5070, children could listen to a five to six minute fairy tale or folk tale.47